PHOTO BY INDIA KENNER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
GETTING STARTED … President Bob Short (middle), Vice President Mike Elser and Treasurer Deanne Batterson welcome community members to the Williams County Township Association quarterly meeting.
By: India Kenner
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
india@thevillagereporter.com
The Township Association Quarterly Meeting was held on Thursday, May 21, featuring wide-ranging discussions on county and township matters, including infrastructure projects, grants, emergency services, and community programs.
Among those participating were Mike Elser, Deanne Batterson, Bert Brown, Bob Short, Del L. Kuney, Mary Gniewkowski, Mark Trausch, Michael Trausch, Daniel Gillen, Vickie Grimm, Scott Noble, Oscar Hernandez III, Kellie Gray, Scott Lirot, Todd Roth, Kyle Miller, and representatives from several agencies and departments.
A motion to approve the minutes from the February meeting was made by Dan Gillen and seconded by Mark Trausch.
Township Association Treasurer Deanne Batterson gave the Treasurer’s Report, which showed receipts of membership dues totaling $2,439, bringing the balance to $5,369.13.
She noted that two checks totaling $775 had cleared. A motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report was made by Mary Gniewkowski and seconded by Bert Brown.
Todd Roth and Chris Dancer provided updates on pavement projects, chip seal work, and approximately 30 miles of roadway improvements. Officials reported that an engineering office has been hired and bids for upcoming projects were reviewed. Center Township drainage projects were also discussed.
Fiber optic installation concerns were raised, including permitting issues, safety protocol violations, and reports of work being done after dark. Residents also reported damage to lines and billing problems.
Kyle Miller from the Sheriff’s Department discussed water rescue and emergency response training, which remained a major focus.
Topics included dive team operations, rescue diver courses, water training, and equipment needs such as flat-bottom boats and new vehicles. Officials also addressed concerns regarding under-ice rescue capabilities.
Oscar Hernandez III talked about grants and funding opportunities for septic systems, community health assessments, nurse home visits for mothers and babies, recycling programs, tire collection events, and possible homeowner assistance grants.
Commissioner Scott Lirot provided updates on JFS caseloads and referrals, workforce programs, transportation issues, and treatment programs, along with sewer treatment and disbursement program requirements.
Township websites and roadway mapping projects were also reviewed.
Auditor Vickie Grimm discussed bill 180 inflation credit cap. Williams County Treasurer Kellie Gray addressed tax bills. Other items included the Welcome Home Grant and Maumee Valley housing initiatives.
In new business, Bert Brown inquired about data center rumors. Zoning discussions emphasized keeping properties clean.
Additional notes from the meeting included questions regarding Amish licensing and buggy fees, with a call placed to Columbus for clarification.
Bob Short reported that the Fair Board has reorganized. Booth space under the grandstand is still available at half price.
The next meeting is scheduled for August 20 (location TBD), with a potluck planned. Jim Hoops was unable to attend this meeting but hopes to join the next one.
The meeting wrapped up with productive conversation on current and future township initiatives, reflecting ongoing efforts to address both immediate needs and long-term community goals.
The meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m. on a motion made by Bert Brown and seconded by Mark Trausch.